Military and political experts described the military deals signed between Saudi Arabia and Russia as “strategic” agreements that will help transfer Russian technology and techniques to the kingdom. This will transform Riyadh into a military producer and exporter, which will enable it to possess advanced military technology. Military expert and strategic analyst Hassan al-Shahri told Asharq Al-Awsat that major powers, including Russia, have realized that Saudi Arabia represents a guarantee for security in the Middle East because it is a guiding force for Muslims and is member of the G20. He noted that the faith that the Russian leadership has in the kingdom led it to request that Saudi Arabia become its partner in this strategic military deal. Saudi-Russian ties will rise to become strategic ones that will bolster the economy and transfer Russian technology to the kingdom, he continued. The military deals may be small, but they are significant in their connotations, said Shahri. Saudi Arabia is a semi-continent that needs to protect is land, air and marine borders through possessing air defense capabilities and other weapons that will enable it to lead tactical military work, he explained. The addition of the advanced military technologies to the Saudi forces will lead to stability and security that will not be limited to the regional scene, but the international one as well, he stressed. Saudi academic and political analyst Dr. Khalil bin Abdullah al-Khalil told Asharq Al-Awsat described as “historic” Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz’s visit to Russia due to the outcomes it achieved in regards to regional and international policy. The former Shura council member hailed the visit and the comprehensive agreements that were signed, especially the military ones. The deals ensured that advanced military equipment and Russian expertise will reach Saudi Arabia to prepare strong armies that possess the best weapons in the world, he added.